The Cleveland Browns (7-8, 2-5 away) battle the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7-1, 5-2-1 away) in an AFC North showdown and what will likely be Ben Roethlisberger’s last home start.
Pittsburgh has not been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, but their chances are slim and likely will be headed into the offseason after next week’s final slate of games. Pittsburgh won the first meeting between these two teams, 15-10, in Cleveland in Week 8.
Monday night’s kickoff is at 8:15 p.m. EST at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA. Cleveland is a 3-point favorite, and the over-under total is at 42 points.
What to Know – Cleveland Browns
Cleveland was officially eliminated from the playoffs yesterday and will head into the offseason with question marks surrounding the roster, especially at quarterback. With their playoff chances dashed, it will be interesting to see if the effort is even there from Browns.
The Browns’ offense averages 20.9 points and 362.1 yards per game. On defense, Cleveland allows 21.9 points and holds opponents to 336.1 yards per game.
Baker Mayfield threw four interceptions in last week’s 24-22 loss to the Green Bay Packers. The embattled quarterback completed 21-of-36 passes for 222 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Nick Chubb carried the ball 17 times for 126 yards and a score and led the Browns in receiving with three catches for 58 yards.
Cleveland has a 7-8 record against the spread this season but are 2-4 ATS over their last six games. The Browns are 1-4 ATS in their previous five games against the Steelers.
What to Know – Pittsburgh Steelers
It appears to be like it is going to be an emotional night in Pittsburgh as Roethlisberger makes his final start at Heinz Field for the only team he’s ever suited up for. Sprinkle in the fact the Steelers are still in the playoff conversation, and you can bet Pittsburgh will come ready to play.
Pittsburgh scores 20.1 points per game with an offense that generates 330.9 yards of offense. Defensively, the Steelers surrender 24.7 points and 386.1 yards of total offense to opponents.
The Steelers were routed by the Kansas City Chiefs last week in a 36-10 beatdown at Arrowhead. Najee Harris continued to add to his solid rookie campaign with 19 carries for 93 yards. Dionte Johnson hauled in six passes for 51 yards and his team-high seventh receiving touchdown of the season.
Pittsburgh is 6-9 ATS this year but 5-2 ATS in their last seven matchups against the AFC. The Steelers are 1-4 ATS in their previous five games on Monday night.
The Pick is In
Early in the season, the Browns defeated the Steelers, and talent-wise Cleveland is the better team. With Monday night being Roethlisberger’s final game, we have seen that type of storyline provide enough emotion for a less-talented squad to overcome the odds.
With Cleveland eliminated from the postseason, it is hard to imagine they will come inspired to play on Monday night. We like the host getting the points here.
Betting Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers +3
